Pros 
Cons A Buzzworthy New Addition to Downtown Des Moines
The Fat Putter Des Moines, a recent arrival to the 713 Walnut St scene, is quickly becoming a popular destination, currently holding a solid 4.3-star rating. This miniature golf course isn’t just about putting; it’s about an experience. Offering three uniquely themed 9-hole courses for $18 per person, it caters to a variety of players, from families (with discounts for kids!) to adults seeking a 21+ evening out. The venue stands out with its full bar serving drinks like the signature “Fat Putter,” and flexible payment options including credit/debit cards and NFC mobile payments. Accessibility is also a plus, boasting wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.
However, several reviews indicate that while the potential is there, the execution isn’t quite perfect yet. The consensus is that The Fat Putter provides a fun, laid-back atmosphere, and the staff consistently receive praise for being friendly and engaging. Many appreciate the convenient downtown location and its selection as a recreational highlight by Iowa Tourism.
Here’s a quick look at what patrons are saying:
- Positives: Welcoming vibe, friendly staff, themed courses, good drink selection, and reasonable prices.
- Negatives: Some broken/malfunctioning obstacles, inconsistent turf, and temperature control issues.
The Course Layout: Hits and Misses
The core offering – the miniature golf itself – receives mixed feedback. Players generally enjoy the creativity of the course design and the variety offered across the three color-coded courses (blue being a particular favorite). The inclusion of a few mini-games before certain holes adds to the entertainment. Many reviewers point out the unique theming is a welcome change from typical miniature golf courses.
However, a recurring theme in the feedback revolves around the condition of some of the holes. Several reviewers noted that "moving part" obstacles weren't functional, and the provided signage only indicated to play around them. This drastically impacts the overall immersive experience and leaves some holes feeling quite dull.
Other issues concern the playing surface itself. Some areas deviated from standard miniature golf turf, leading to unpredictable ball behavior – excessive speed, bouncing, and difficulty controlling shots. This inconsistency can be incredibly frustrating, particularly for those aiming for a good score. One reviewer commented that the courses felt exceptionally long due to the high temperature within the building, exacerbating these issues.
Amenities and Atmosphere: A Space with Potential
The Fat Putter provides a social atmosphere catering to a diverse crowd. The facility is family-friendly, and while they don’t currently offer a full restaurant menu, visitors can order food delivery (like Fong’s Pizza) to enjoy while playing. The availability of lockers is a thoughtful touch, although patrons are advised to bring their own padlocks for security.
However, the amenity experience isn’t flawless. Several reports mention bathroom issues, including flooding and temporary closures. While the staff acknowledge these are due to plumbing problems, they are undeniably inconvenient.
Here’s a breakdown of amenities:
| Amenity | Available |
|---|---|
| Restroom | Yes |
| Restaurant | No |
| Wheelchair Access | Yes |
| Lockers | Yes |
One reviewer comparing the experience to a beachfront course in Cape Town highlighted a preference for outdoor settings, suggesting a fundamental difference in enjoyment for some players. Another noted the Omaha location had more interactive mini-games, something missing in the Des Moines iteration.
Opening Day Jitters or Ongoing Concerns?
A common sentiment amongst reviewers is that The Fat Putter Des Moines feels like it might have opened prematurely. Several comments allude to "bugs that need to be worked out," with issues like broken obstacles, malfunctioning features, and balls getting stuck being frequent complaints. One person stated, “It almost feels like they opened before they were ready.”
While patrons generally acknowledge the challenges of launching a new business and offer a degree of leniency, the consistency of these concerns raises questions. The issues aren’t minor inconveniences; they directly impact the playability and enjoyment of the miniature golf experience. The combination of these mechanical issues, the reported temperature fluctuations, and occasionally inconsistent turf creates a somewhat uneven experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the positive aspects—friendly staff, a lively atmosphere, and a unique concept—indicate that with some attention to detail and ongoing maintenance, The Fat Putter Des Moines has the potential to become a truly standout destination in the downtown area.